WHEN IT’S BETTER NOT TO BRUSH

Though thin and partially translucent, tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the body. It has the vital job of protecting teeth from constant use and the continual assault of chemicals in food and drink. The team at South York Smile Center in Shrewsbury PA reminds you that enamel is central to your dental health.

One of its most important functions is safeguarding tooth nerves from hot and cold food and beverages. That’s why enamel loss often causes tooth sensitivity.

Cuts heal. Bruises fade. Broken bones mend. The body’s ability to heal itself is truly wondrous. But tooth enamel is different. When it’s gone, it’s gone.

This may seem counterintuitive, but sometimes it is better NOT to brush immediately after eating. Specifically, after eating acidic items. The acid weakens the enamel which can be further weakened by brushing. Waiting 60 minutes will allow the acid to dilute. Rinsing immediately after eating acidic foods is useful, too, because it washes away some food particles and speeds up the dilution of the acid.

Some people don’t realize that dry mouth can cause or exacerbate enamel erosion. The calcium and phosphate in saliva protects your enamel. When there is little saliva, the enamel is left unprotected. Chewing stimulates saliva production but constant snacking is not the solution for dry mouth. Chewing sugar-free gum and sipping water regularly can stimulate saliva production between meals without increasing the risk of or upping your calorie intake.

Additionally, tooth grinding wears enamel away. If you are one of the many Shrewsbury residents who grinds their teeth at night, it’s essential to get a mouthguard promptly. People who grind their teeth are at a high risk for enamel erosion and the cavities that can follow. Athletes should also guard their teeth on the playing field with a mouthguard.

If you sip soda, tea, or coffee all day, we suggest you switch to water to halt any enamel erosion that has already developed. It may be a hard change to make, but if you are successful, your teeth will thank you for it.

Using teeth as tools can damage enamel, as well. Take a moment to fetch scissors before tearing a package or ripping duct tape with your teeth. Do you really want to take a chance on chipping a tooth just to open a package of lunchmeat?

Chewing ice and hard candy can also hurt enamel. If you simply must have sugar, soft candy is best as long as it is not left to sit on teeth for long period of time. If your molars are packed with gummy candy, it can cause cavities which erode enamel just as effectively as chipping it with hard candy. Many of the old-school hard candies we enjoyed as kids now come in soft versions. Enjoy them sparingly because constant sugar is bad for teeth. Period.

The dental health of our patients is important to us at Southern York Smile Center in Shrewsbury PA. We want to see each one twice a year for an exam and cleaning. Make your appointment today!